The Rainbow Mountain, considered the second most visited place in the city of Cusco after Machu Picchu. It is an impressive walk in the Andes mountain range (Vilcanota mountain chain), this route of the rainbow mountain, leaves the city of Cusco in a southern direction, along the trip you will be able to observe picturesque towns in the southern valley of Cusco, all surrounded by cultivated fields. This place is very close to the highest mountain in the Cusco region, and very important for the Andean peoples, APU AUSANGATE (6,377 masl).
Therefore, our Trek will be accompanied by snowy peaks, glaciers and beautiful mountains. This trail is very hard, because it is located at a height of 4,900 meters above sea level, for this reason the lack of oxygen is recommended to visitors, before scheduling their trip to Peru and the mountain of colors, doing sports practices and physical preparation .
Overview
Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain, is a stunning geological formation located in the Andes of Peru. Here’s an overview of this remarkable natural wonder:
Location
- Region: Cusco Region
- Province: Canchis
- District: Pitumarca
Geography and Geology
- Elevation: Approximately 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level.
- Geological Formation: The vibrant colors of Vinicunca are due to the sedimentary layers that have been exposed by erosion. These layers contain different minerals, such as iron oxide (red), copper sulfate (green), and other mineral deposits that contribute to the array of colors.
Climate
- Weather: The climate is harsh, with cold temperatures year-round due to the high altitude. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and snowfall is common.
Cultural Significance
- Local Name: The mountain is known as Vinicunca in the Quechua language, which translates to “Rainbow Mountain.”
- Indigenous Importance: The area around Vinicunca holds significant cultural and spiritual value for the local Quechua-speaking communities. It is considered a sacred site and part of their traditional territory.
Tourism
- Accessibility: Vinicunca is accessible via a challenging trek from Cusco, which typically takes about 3 to 4 hours by car to the starting point, followed by a several-hour hike.
- Popularity: The mountain has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years, attracting visitors from around the world. The hike offers stunning views of the Andean landscape and the mountain’s unique colors.
Conservation
- Environmental Concerns: The influx of tourists has raised concerns about environmental degradation. Efforts are being made to manage tourism sustainably to preserve the natural beauty and cultural significance of the area.
Tips for Visitors
- Preparation: Due to the high altitude, it is essential to acclimatize in Cusco for a few days before attempting the hike to Vinicunca. Proper gear, including warm clothing and sturdy hiking boots, is necessary.
- Health Precautions: Visitors should be aware of the risks of altitude sickness and take appropriate measures, such as staying hydrated and taking it slow during the hike.
Vinicunca is a breathtaking destination that offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. Its vibrant colors and striking landscape make it a must-visit for those traveling to Peru.
Itinerary
DAY 01.- CUSCO – CUSIPATA- RAINBOW MOUNTAIN
We pick you up at your respective hotel at 4.30 to 4.45 am, and then begin our incredible adventure driving, approximately 2.30 to 3.00 hours in our tourist transport through the southern valley until we reach the town of Tintingo, which is at 3,800 masl, where we will enjoy After a delicious breakfast, we then continue our journey to the beginning of the trail called killiwani (4,800 masl). Along this path there are impressive views of agricultural terraces, canyons and snow-capped mountains.
Once you arrive at the beginning of the trail our Guide will give you a brief introduction to the area, to finally start a walk of approximately 1.30 hours on a path laid with a gradual rise of approximately 35 degrees, during the walk we will have the opportunity to appreciate spectacular systems of this place and beautiful views of the snowy Ausangate. At 11:45 a.m. Approximately we will arrive at our destination the mountain of colors that is at 5000. masl. Here you will have enough time to enjoy this landscape. After visiting the mountain we will return to the place where our transport is located, to return to Tintingo where our lunch awaits us. And then we will return to the city of Cusco arriving at approximately 5.30 p.m.
Inclusions
SERVICES INCLUDING:
- Pre – trip information the day before
- Pick up from your respective Hotel
- Round trip transportation tourist service: Cusco – Killiwani – Cusco
- Breakfast.
- Buffet lunch
- Snack for the road (Bottle of water, energy bars, chocolates, candies)
- Bilingual professional guide
- Entrance to the protected area
- You finish blankets
- Canes
- First aid kit,
- Oxygen balloon
Should Bring
WE RECOMMEND TO BRING:
- A small backpack
- Thermal clothing
- Trekking shoes
- Sun hat
- Warm jacket
- Gloves, hat and scarf
- Sunscreen
- Photographic camera.
- Jacket / rain poncho (for safety)
Price
Price: Season 2024
PRICES & ADD-ONS
Group Service: USD $.70
Private Service: USD $.150
Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?
- Depending on the number of people in your booking, additional people may join the trek to make a full group.
- If you choose “private”, no additional people will be joining your group, no matter the size.
- Minimum booking size is 02 people; one person may book a group trek if Salkantay Expeditions, is able to join that person with additional groups.
Rentals
- Hiking poles – USD $.10 (pair)
Booking
